RODEO: Saddened and embarrassed

I found myself so proud and humbled at the start of the rodeo on Wednesday night. The opening invocation, the singing of the Canadian and U.S. national anthems, the love of country, the respect given to our public servants and military, the displays of skill by man and woman and animal and the beauty of North Idaho and those in attendance.

So why would so many feel compelled to boo Californians? I was embarrassed, saddened and perplexed. Because we may not agree with something political or an ideology? What would compel people to boo? Think about it, the cowboy from California is thinking, why would all of these people boo the place that I live in this country. I have lived in Idaho since 1976 and have no valid explanation, we are better than this, we are one country and should respect and show love for one another.

DAVID PASSARO

Coeur d’Alene